About Mindfulness Through Movement
Mindfulness through Movement, Inc. (MTM) is a Philadelphia-based 501c(3) organization committed to nurturing the wellness of children in underserved communities. Begun in 2014, MTM offers school-based mindfulness and yoga programs during the school year to at-risk youth in the Philadelphia area. The goal is to offer kids tools, through exercise and meditation, to reduce stress, improve overall mental and physical health, and to develop better nutritional habits. MTM also offers Self-Care for Educators.
Our Target Audience
The target population is children from communities that are characterized by having few resources, high rates of unemployment, homelessness and crime. Living in urban poverty brings increased exposure to crime and violence, particularly for adolescents. Most of our participating schools are schools which are located in areas where 40% or more of the residents live below the poverty line. Many of the students who attend these schools are from low-income families.
Mindfulness Practices to Enhance the Learning Environment
Research indicates that education is one of the best ways to build the capacity in young people to make better choices in their lives. A significant challenge for educators and schools in underserved neighborhoods is how to create the conditions necessary for learning when many children live with high stress and chaos outside of the classroom.
Benefits of Our Program
- Peaceful Conflict Resolution
- Improved Focus and Concentration
- Greater Control of Thoughts & Emotions
- Improved Self-Regulation
- Anger Management
- Stress Reduction
